Los Angeles Lakers delivered speech by Denzel Washington

The Los Angeles Lakers had legendary actor Denzel Washington speak to the team Wednesday in their series put together by Rob Pelinka.

The Los Angeles Lakers entered Thursday’s game against the Indiana Pacers riding a two-game losing streak. One more loss would match their season-worst losing streak, which came at the beginning of the season when the team started 0-3.

To help snap the losing streak, the Lakers turned to a familiar face; Denzel Washington. Washington is a regular at the Staples Center, sitting courtside during Lakers games. He was the most recent guest speaker that graced the team with their presence.

Throughout the season, general manager Rob Pelinka has guest speakers come and address the team from the world of entertainment and other industries. The Hollywood star was the most recent speaker, visiting the team Wednesday in the latest installment of the team’s ‘Genius Series’.

It was a great experience according to head coach Luke Walton.

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"“It’s great,” Lakers coach Luke Walton said Thursday. “People are frustrated and angry after those types of games, so you bring in someone like Denzel, and he talks about the things he talks about, it does a nice job of lifting spirits.”"

The Lakers have played poorly in their last two games. They suffered another disappointing loss to the Orlando Magic before getting blown out by the Denver Nuggets.

Spirits couldn’t have been too high after two disappointing performances, but it sounds like Washington provided positive vibes to help get the team back on track.

"“Be good to people. Be thankful for what we have,” Walton said, paraphrasing Washington’s talk. “Start every day being humble and grateful for the lives we live and use the blessings we have to help other people.”"

Being a successful actor or professional athlete is a dream many people have but few accomplish. The timing of Washington’s appearance was a coincidence, as Walton said these are set up a long time in advanced. The timing couldn’t have been better for the team, as Washington provided some words following a difficult loss.

LeBron James published a post on his Instagram about the visit, speaking highly of Washington.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqvtyecAQym/?utm_source=ig_embed

James said that Washington was one of his idols while growing up in Akron, Ohio.

"“I grew up watching these guys,” James said. “I grew up admiring these guys, admiring their craft, wanting to be like certain characters they portrayed either in TV shows or movies or in standup. So, that’s what it all boils down to. I appreciate those guys and thank them more than they know."

Washington had some tough acts to follow in the ‘Genius Series’. Prior to Washington visiting with the team this week, Kendrick Lama, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Elon Musk, Jeffery Katzenberg and Allyson Felix spoke to the team.